MOLD INSPECTIONS & INDOOR AIR QUALITY ASSESSMENTS

What is mold and what causes it?

Mold is part of the fungi family, along with mushrooms, yeast and mildew. Mold is a microscopic organism which produces mold spores that become airborne. Mold spores are everywhere in our environment and are usually dormant. However, when mold becomes damp due to water intrusion or high relative humidity (in excess of 60%), mold will multiply. Mold produces enzymes which digest organic material such as drywall, carpet, paper, cloths, books and even wood.

When excessive moisture accumulates in a building or on building materials, mold growth will often occur, particularly if the moisture problem remains undiscovered or unaddressed. Mold growth can occur within 24 to 48 hours. It is impossible to eliminate all molds and mold spores in the indoor environment. However, mold growth can be controlled by controlling the indoor relative humidity and moisture.

Mold Inspections – Know the quality of the air you are breathing.

High indoor relative humidity, prolonged plumbing or roofing leaks and other water intrusion events can quickly lead to mold growth in your home, facility or workplace. Following the standards set forth by the Indoor Environmental Standards Organization (IESO), CFL Environmental Solutions Inc. offers the following proven approach to identify the source of the moisture/mold, the extent of the problem and most importantly conclusions and recommendations (instructions) to rectify the problem:

Collect two indoor air samples and one outside control sample. Additional indoor air samples can be collected if warranted.

Send the air samples to an AIHA accredited laboratory via overnight courier.

Receive and analyze the lab results the next business day.

Prepare a thorough report based on the visual assessment and the lab results which will identify the source of the mold or other indoor pollutant (if any) and the extent of the problem. If mold or other indoor air pollutants are found, the report will include recommendations (instructions) for rectifying the problem.

CFL Environmental Solutions Inc. will not be involved in the remediation of any mold problems, as that would be a CONFLICT OF INTEREST. As regulated and licensed by the State of Florida, companies operate either as a mold assessment company or a mold remediation company, not both. Once the mold remediation company has completed its work, CFL Environmental Solutions Inc. can perform a Post Remediation Clearance Test to confirm that the remediation was successful and the mold problem rectified.

Who needs indoor air quality/mold assessments?

Real Estate Transactions: Whether you are buying or leasing, it is advisable to address potential mold concerns during the due diligence time period for residential and commercial structures, especially if the structure has been unoccupied and vacant for a period of time, or has a history of water intrusion.

Prolonged Water Intrusion Events: Once a water intrusion event is discovered, please seek professional help. Often airborne mold spores are spread throughout the structure during DIY mold remediation due to lack of knowledge, training and equipment. Airborne or not, mold spores cannot be seen with the naked eye but are easily inhaled.

Health Issues: The long-term presence of indoor mold may eventually become unhealthy. Those with special health concerns should consult a medical doctor if they feel their health is affected by indoor mold. The following types of people may be affected sooner or more severely than others: babies and children, elderly persons, individuals with chronic respiratory conditions, allergies or asthma and persons having weakened immune systems. For people that are sensitive to airborne mold spores, symptoms such as nasal and sinus irritation or congestion, dry hacking cough, wheezing, skin rashes, or burning, watery or reddened eyes may occur. People with severe allergies to mold may have more serious reactions, such as hay-fever-like symptoms and shortness of breath.

What is mold and what causes it?

Mold is part of the fungi family, along with mushrooms, yeast and mildew. Mold is a microscopic organism which produces mold spores that become airborne. Mold spores are everywhere in our environment and are usually dormant. However, when mold becomes damp due to water intrusion or high relative humidity (in excess of 60%), mold will multiply. Mold produces enzymes which digest organic material such as drywall, carpet, paper, cloths, books and even wood.

When excessive moisture accumulates in a building or on building materials, mold growth will often occur, particularly if the moisture problem remains undiscovered or unaddressed. Mold growth can occur within 24 to 48 hours. It is impossible to eliminate all molds and mold spores in the indoor environment. However, mold growth can be controlled by controlling the indoor relative humidity and moisture.

Mold Inspections – Know the quality of the air you are breathing.

High indoor relative humidity, prolonged plumbing or roofing leaks and other water intrusion events can quickly lead to mold growth in your home, facility or workplace. Following the standards set forth by the Indoor Environmental Standards Organization (IESO), CFL Environmental Solutions Inc. offers the following proven approach to identify the source of the moisture/mold, the extent of the problem and most importantly conclusions and recommendations (instructions) to rectify the problem:

Collect two indoor air samples and one outside control sample. Additional indoor air samples can be collected if warranted.

Send the air samples to an AIHA accredited laboratory via overnight courier.

Receive and analyze the lab results the next business day.

Prepare a thorough report based on the visual assessment and the lab results which will identify the source of the mold or other indoor pollutant (if any) and the extent of the problem. If mold or other indoor air pollutants are found, the report will include recommendations (instructions) for rectifying the problem.

CFL Environmental Solutions Inc. will not be involved in the remediation of any mold problems, as that would be a CONFLICT OF INTEREST. As regulated and licensed by the State of Florida, companies operate either as a mold assessment company or a mold remediation company, not both. Once the mold remediation company has completed its work, CFL Environmental Solutions Inc. can perform a Post Remediation Clearance Test to confirm that the remediation was successful and the mold problem rectified.

Who needs indoor air quality/mold assessments?

Real Estate Transactions:
Whether you are buying or leasing, it is advisable to address potential mold concerns during the due diligence time period for residential and commercial structures, especially if the structure has been unoccupied and vacant for a period of time, or has a history of water intrusion.

Prolonged Water Intrusion Events:
Once a water intrusion event is discovered, please seek professional help. Often airborne mold spores are spread throughout the structure during DIY mold remediation due to lack of knowledge, training and equipment. Airborne or not, mold spores cannot be seen with the naked eye but are easily inhaled.

Health Issues:
The long-term presence of indoor mold may eventually become unhealthy. Those with special health concerns should consult a medical doctor if they feel their health is affected by indoor mold. The following types of people may be affected sooner or more severely than others: babies and children, elderly persons, individuals with chronic respiratory conditions, allergies or asthma and persons having weakened immune systems. For people that are sensitive to airborne mold spores, symptoms such as nasal and sinus irritation or congestion, dry hacking cough, wheezing, skin rashes, or burning, watery or reddened eyes may occur. People with severe allergies to mold may have more serious reactions, such as hay-fever-like symptoms and shortness of breath.

Frequently asked questions

What is mold?

Mold is part of the fungi family, along with mushrooms, yeast and mildew. Mold is a microscopic organism which produces mold spores (seeds) that become airborne. Mold spores are everywhere in our environment and are usually dormant. However, when mold spores have enough moisture (from water intrusion or high humidity) and an organic food source (such as dust or drywall), mold will grow. Mold produces enzymes which digest organic material such as drywall, carpet, paper, cloths, books and even wood.

What causes mold?

High indoor relative humidity (greater than 60%), plumbing or roofing leaks, and other water intrusion events can quickly lead to mold growth in your home, facility or workplace. In fact, mold growth can occur within 24 to 48 hours. It is impossible to eliminate all molds and mold spores in the indoor environment. However, mold growth can be controlled by controlling the moisture (water intrusion or high humidity).

How long does it take for mold to grow?

Mold growth can occur within 24 to 48 hours once moisture is introduced, either from high humidity or plumbing or roofing leaks and other water intrusion events.

Can you get sick from mold in your house?

The concentration of mold in your house can make certain individuals sick. Those with special health concerns should consult a medical doctor if they feel their health is affected by indoor mold. The following types of people may be affected sooner or more severely than others: babies and children, elderly persons, individuals with chronic respiratory conditions, allergies or asthma and persons having weakened immune systems. For people that are sensitive to airborne mold spores, symptoms such as nasal and sinus irritation or congestion, dry hacking cough, wheezing, skin rashes, or burning, watery or reddened eyes may occur.

What are the symptoms of mold exposure?

Symptoms such as nasal and sinus irritation or congestion, dry hacking cough, wheezing, skin rashes, or burning, watery or reddened eyes may occur. People with severe allergies to mold may have more serious reactions.

What is a mold inspection / mold assessment?

The terms “mold inspection” and “mold assessment” are interchangeable. A mold inspection / mold assessment includes a visual assessment of a structure (residential, commercial, or facility) for the presence of mold and moisture. The licensed mold assessor will also collect samples (air, tape lift, swabs, or a combination thereof) to be analyzed by an accredited laboratory. Then, based on the visual assessment and the lab results, the licensed mold assessor should prepare a report which will identify the source of the mold, the extent of the problem and provide instructions/recommendations (protocol) for remediating the mold damage. Typically a mold assessment should include a floor plan, photographs, lab results, conclusions and most importantly instructions/ recommendations for remediating the mold damage.

What is mold testing / mold sampling?

The terms “mold testing” and “mold sampling” are interchangeable. Mold testing / mold sampling is the collection of samples (air, tape lift, swabs, or a combination thereof) to be analyzed by an accredited laboratory. Mold testing / mold sampling is not the same thing as a mold inspection / mold assessment. Mold testing / mold sampling is simply the collection of samples and does not include a visual assessment, conclusions nor instructions/recommendations (protocol) for remediating the mold damage. Often home inspectors will provide mold testing / mold sampling, but do not provide conclusions and instructions/recommendations (protocol) for remediating the mold damage.

How much does it cost to have your house tested for mold?

Typically the collection of air, tape lift and swab samples range between $75 – $100 per sample. A mold inspection / mold assessment typically starts at $475, depending on the square footage of the indoor living space of your house and the number of samples needed to assess that square footage. It is important to have your home assessed by a licensed mold assessor. You can check to see if your mold assessor is licensed by the State of Florida at the website for the State of Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulations (myfloridalicense.com) and searching for the name of your individual mold assessor.

Is mold damage covered by homeowners insurance?

Mold damage may be covered by your homeowners insurance if it was caused by a “covered peril”, such as water saturation resulting from a fire event or an accidental discharge/overflow of water from plumbing, air conditioners, sprinkler systems, or household appliances. Otherwise, it is unlikely your homeowners insurance will cover mold damage. It is best to check with your homeowners insurance company to see if your particular situation is covered.

How do you get rid of mold in your house?

The first step is to determine the source of the mold and the extent of the problem. A licensed mold assessor can perform a thorough mold inspection / mold assessment to answer those important questions and provide a written report with detailed instructions for getting rid of the mold. Then, a mold remediation company will come in and, following the instructions in the written report prepared by the licensed mold assessor, remediate the mold damage. Trying to get rid of mold yourself can lead to a bigger problem because you may unwittingly release mold spores in the air which could contaminate other areas of your house.

What can I do to prevent mold in my house?

What is mold?

Mold is part of the fungi family, along with mushrooms, yeast and mildew. Mold is a microscopic organism which produces mold spores (seeds) that become airborne. Mold spores are everywhere in our environment and are usually dormant. However, when mold spores have enough moisture (from water intrusion or high humidity) and an organic food source (such as dust or drywall), mold will grow. Mold produces enzymes which digest organic material such as drywall, carpet, paper, cloths, books and even wood.

What causes mold?

High indoor relative humidity (greater than 60%), plumbing or roofing leaks, and other water intrusion events can quickly lead to mold growth in your home, facility or workplace. In fact, mold growth can occur within 24 to 48 hours. It is impossible to eliminate all molds and mold spores in the indoor environment. However, mold growth can be controlled by controlling the moisture (water intrusion or high humidity).

How long does it take for mold to grow?

Mold growth can occur within 24 to 48 hours once moisture is introduced, either from high humidity or plumbing or roofing leaks and other water intrusion events.

Can you get sick from mold in your house?

The concentration of mold in your house can make certain individuals sick. Those with special health concerns should consult a medical doctor if they feel their health is affected by indoor mold. The following types of people may be affected sooner or more severely than others: babies and children, elderly persons, individuals with chronic respiratory conditions, allergies or asthma and persons having weakened immune systems. For people that are sensitive to airborne mold spores, symptoms such as nasal and sinus irritation or congestion, dry hacking cough, wheezing, skin rashes, or burning, watery or reddened eyes may occur.

What are the symptoms of mold exposure?

Symptoms such as nasal and sinus irritation or congestion, dry hacking cough, wheezing, skin rashes, or burning, watery or reddened eyes may occur. People with severe allergies to mold may have more serious reactions.

What is a mold inspection / mold assessment?

The terms “mold inspection” and “mold assessment” are interchangeable. A mold inspection / mold assessment includes a visual assessment of a structure (residential, commercial, or facility) for the presence of mold and moisture. The licensed mold assessor will also collect samples (air, tape lift, swabs, or a combination thereof) to be analyzed by an accredited laboratory. Then, based on the visual assessment and the lab results, the licensed mold assessor should prepare a report which will identify the source of the mold, the extent of the problem and provide instructions/recommendations (protocol) for remediating the mold damage. Typically a mold assessment should include a floor plan, photographs, lab results, conclusions and most importantly instructions/ recommendations for remediating the mold damage.

What is mold testing / mold sampling?

The terms “mold testing” and “mold sampling” are interchangeable. Mold testing / mold sampling is the collection of samples (air, tape lift, swabs, or a combination thereof) to be analyzed by an accredited laboratory. Mold testing / mold sampling is not the same thing as a mold inspection / mold assessment. Mold testing / mold sampling is simply the collection of samples and does not include a visual assessment, conclusions nor instructions/recommendations (protocol) for remediating the mold damage. Often home inspectors will provide mold testing / mold sampling, but do not provide conclusions and instructions/recommendations (protocol) for remediating the mold damage.

How much does it cost to have your house tested for mold?

Typically the collection of air, tape lift and swab samples range between $75 – $100 per sample. A mold inspection / mold assessment typically starts at $475, depending on the square footage of the indoor living space of your house and the number of samples needed to assess that square footage. It is important to have your home assessed by a licensed mold assessor. You can check to see if your mold assessor is licensed by the State of Florida at the website for the State of Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulations (myfloridalicense.com) and searching for the name of your individual mold assessor.

Is mold damage covered by homeowners insurance?

Mold damage may be covered by your homeowners insurance if it was caused by a “covered peril”, such as water saturation resulting from a fire event or an accidental discharge/overflow of water from plumbing, air conditioners, sprinkler systems, or household appliances. Otherwise, it is unlikely your homeowners insurance will cover mold damage. It is best to check with your homeowners insurance company to see if your particular situation is covered.

How do you get rid of mold in your house?

The first step is to determine the source of the mold and the extent of the problem. A licensed mold assessor can perform a thorough mold inspection / mold assessment to answer those important questions and provide a written report with detailed instructions for getting rid of the mold. Then, a mold remediation company will come in and, following the instructions in the written report prepared by the licensed mold assessor, remediate the mold damage. Trying to get rid of mold yourself can lead to a bigger problem because you may unwittingly release mold spores in the air which could contaminate other areas of your house.